Canopies are usually identified by their name, and then a number, which is the size. The measuring methods vary a bit, but canopies listed as the same size are usually comparable sizes.

By happy coincidence, the size in square feet goes along with your exit weight in pounds to give a wingloading ratio. Exit weight is your entire weight ready to go out the door. You, your clothes, all your gear.

For beginners, keeping the wingload under 1:1 (one pound per square foot of canopy) is a good idea. The more heavily loaded the canopy is, the faster and more aggressive it will act.

If you are of average size, a canopy around 230-250 is a good place to start. Once you have some experience, a 170-210 is a typical choice. This is general info. Your personal choice is dependent on your skills, experience, training, location (DZ elevation plays a part in size choice) and on and on.